What we’re about
Looking to connect with fellow bookworms in the Mountain View area? You've come to the right place! We are a group of avid readers who like to stay up-to-date on the latest in literature, while still enjoying the classics. And we're not all work and no play-- there will be plenty of socializing and maybe a cocktail/coffee or two, too! Potential books will be selected by members and curated from book awards lists (think Man Booker Prize, National Book Award, etc.), and voted on by members in advance of each meet up. I hope you'll join us!
Upcoming events (3)
See all- Autocracy, Inc. by Anne ApplebaumRed Rock Coffee, Mountain View, CA
Kepler's, Books Inc.
Non-Fiction. 207 pages. Hardcover. 2024.Pulitzer Prize Winner. New York Times Best Book. The Times Best Book.
A critical analysis of how autocrats consolidate power in the modern world. “Riveting” – The New York Times. “Alarming” – Time.
In Autocracy, Inc., Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Anne Applebaum offers an alarming account of how modern autocracies collaborate to undermine democratic institutions worldwide. Contrary to the traditional image of isolated dictators, today's autocratic regimes—spanning countries like Russia, China, Iran, and Venezuela—form sophisticated networks. These alliances are not based on shared ideologies but on mutual interests in maintaining power and wealth. They engage in joint propaganda efforts, share surveillance technologies, and support each other's oppressive measures, creating a united front against democratic values. Applebaum delves into the mechanisms of this global autocratic cooperation and calls for democracies to recognize and counteract these threats to preserve freedom and the rule of law.
**Venue**: Red Rock has kindly given us this rental space for free. Please consider making a purchase to support them. Thanks!
- Born a Crime by Trevor NoahRed Rock Coffee, Mountain View, CA
Kepler's, Books Inc.
Memoir. 304 pages. Paperback. 2016.NAACP Image Award Winner. New York Times Bestseller. Booker Prize Longlist.
A memoir about Trevor Noah's childhood growing up in apartheid South Africa. “Hilarious” – The New York Times. “Heartfelt” – NPR.
From the publisher:
Trevor Noah’s Born a Crime is the compelling, darkly funny, and essential memoir of a boy born to a white Swiss father and a Black Xhosa mother at a time when such a union was illegal in South Africa. Through vivid storytelling, Noah recounts his often absurd yet poignant experiences navigating a divided nation with humor and resilience. From being tossed out of a moving car by his mother to accidentally burning down a white family's house, the book captures his mischievous spirit and his mother’s unwavering faith and fierce love.
A powerful coming-of-age story, Born a Crime reveals the world that shaped one of the most perceptive and hilarious voices in global comedy. It is both a portrait of a nation in transition and a deeply personal exploration of identity, love, and survival.**Venue**: Red Rock has kindly given us this rental space for free. Please consider making a purchase to support them. Thanks!
- Dopamine Nation by Anna Lembke.Red Rock Coffee, Mountain View, CA
Kepler’s | Books Inc.
Non-Fiction. 304 pages. Hardcover. 2021.
Goodreads Choice Award Nominee, NYT Best Book, Amazon Best Seller.An exploration of addiction and how modern society fuels compulsive behaviors. “Eye-opening” - NPR. “Insightful” - NYT .
From the publisher:
In Dopamine Nation, Dr. Anna Lembke explores the shocking modern landscape of compulsive overconsumption, where our need for quick dopamine hits—from drugs and food to smartphones and shopping—creates a profound imbalance in our brain’s reward circuitry. Through compelling patient stories and scientific insight, Lembke draws on decades of experience to explain why seeking pleasure and avoiding pain ultimately leads to pain, and what we can do to restore balance. Equal parts informative and compassionate, this book shows how embracing pain can be the gateway to recovery, connection, and contentment in a world of overwhelming abundance.**Venue**: Red Rock has kindly given us this rental space for free. Please consider making a purchase to support them. Thanks!
